Trustees reflect on their work on International Women’s Day
Today (Sunday 8 March) sees International Women’s Day taking place worldwide.
The event, now in its 115th year, celebrates the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. Its aims include raising awareness and tackling issues around subjects such as the gender pay gap, lack of representation in leadership roles, gender-based violence, and unequal access to education and opportunities.
This year’s theme is ‘Give to Gain’, highlighting that when people, organisations, and communities give generously, opportunities and support for women increase.
At The Road Safety Trust, we are proud of the contributions that our female colleagues continue to make to the organisation – and wider road safety sector – every single day.
In the spirit of the Give to Gain theme, we share the thoughts of some of our Trustees, who give their time generously and voluntarily to our wider cause of reducing death and serious injury on UK roads:
Joy Allen, Association of Police and Crime Commissioners (APCC) Trustee and member of Communications and Engagement Committee
“Serving as a Trustee of the Road Safety Trust matters deeply to me because behind every road death or serious injury is a devastated family and a life cut short.
“Supporting research and innovation that helps prevent those tragedies is both a privilege and a responsibility.
“As we mark International Women’s Day, this year’s theme ‘Give to Gain’ is a powerful reminder that when women step forward, share their voice and give their time, they can create real change and save precious lives.”
Emma Kelly, Chair of Communications and Engagement Committee and member of Nominations Committee
“Serving as an RST Trustee allows me to give my time in a way that truly embodies the IWD 2026 theme of ‘Give to Gain’ by contributing to help prevent road deaths, which are tragic, yet entirely preventable events.
“In my working life, and as a Trustee, my passion is in the field of road safety. Being part of a Board with such a wonderful breadth of experience and like-minded trustees enriches my understanding of governance, strategy, reputation and impact, whilst also challenging me to develop new skills and perspectives.
“I particularly value working alongside the talented women on our Board and in the RST team whose insights and skills inspire me to be a better person. At the end of the day, what matters the most to me is having the opportunity to help make even a small difference.”
Vicky Folland, Member of the Road Safety Initiatives Committee
“I’m really grateful to be able to give my time to the Road Safety Trust. This isn’t just work for me, road safety has been a huge part of my life and career, and being able to play even a small part in supporting projects that genuinely save lives means a lot.
“International Women’s Day feels like a good moment to recognise the women who keep showing up and pushing things forward, and also the allies who support and encourage that along the way. It also matters to me that my kids see this. I want them to grow up knowing you can step up, give your time, and make a difference to something that matters.
“‘Give to Gain’ really sums it up because the more I give to this role, the more purpose and pride I get back from being part of something that’s making a real impact.”
We’re truly grateful to be supported by such a passionate and engaged group of Trustees who share our determination to make our roads and streets safer for all.
We thank everyone who works for The Road Safety Trust, but especially on International Women’s Day, we particularly pay tribute to all the women – whether Trustees, staff or associates – who continue to make a difference in our organisation and are working together to achieving zero deaths and serious injuries on our roads.
8 March 2026